LAHORE MIRROR – Grammy-winning singer Shakira is facing serious legal troubles as Spanish authorities launch an investigation into her alleged tax fraud. The investigation, led by a magistrate in the Barcelona suburb of Esplugues de Llobregat, is focusing on two alleged counts of tax fraud in 2018.
This is not the first time the “Waka Waka” hitmaker has been embroiled in such legal issues. Currently, she is awaiting trial for alleged tax evasion amounting to $16.2 million for the years 2012, 2013, and 2014. The Colombian-born musician, who currently resides in Miami, has previously denied the charges through her public relations firm, claiming innocence regarding the tax fraud allegations related to the period 2012-2014.
The latest investigation centers on the alleged use of a network of companies in offshore tax havens to conceal the sources of her income during the mentioned years. Alongside Shakira, a financial adviser has also been named in the investigation.
The initial tax fraud charges against Shakira were brought forward by Barcelona prosecutors in July 2021. They contended that she should have paid taxes in Spain due to her extended stay in the country during 2012-2014, which exceeded the half-year threshold for residency. The amount she allegedly owes authorities is a staggering $13.9 million (£13 million).
Shakira has consistently maintained that during the specified period, her fiscal residence was in the Bahamas, firmly rejecting the accusations against her and asserting that she fulfilled her tax obligations.
The ongoing investigations have raised serious questions about the singer’s financial practices and have cast a cloud of uncertainty over her reputation. As the legal proceedings continue, Shakira’s legal team will undoubtedly be challenged to defend her position against the mounting evidence.
